Villanova had a successful first season in the new Big East, finishing with a 16-2 conference record and a 29-5 overall record. They bowed out of the NCAA Tournament in the round of 32, but to eventual National Champion UConn.
First Game: Friday, November 14th vs. Lehigh
First Game: Friday, November 14th vs. Lehigh
Key Losses: James Bell
Bell was a big contributor to the Wildcat offense, averaging 14.4 ppg, 6.1 rpg and shot 81.5% from the line. He led the team in ppg, minutes per game, and steals per game as well. Someone will need to step up to fill the production Bell has left behind.
Key Returning Players: JayVaughn Pinkston, Darrun Hilliard, Ryan Archidiacono
Fortunately for the Wildcats, they can make up for Bell's production with improvements from all three of the guys listed above. Pinkston is entering his final season and looks to be the first option on offense. Hilliard was the number two scorer on last year's team, so he will be comfortable having a smiliar role on this year's team. Finally, Arcidiacono is a pesky defender who controls the tempo on offense. He will be able to take on an even bigger role for his junior season.
Key Additions: Mikal Bridges
Local Malvern product Bridges is the #20 ranked small forward in the nation, according to ESPN's Recruiting rankings. Bridges will be able to slide into the rotation from day one and help carry some of the offensive load immediately.
Bottom Line:
Jay Wright and crew lost a terrific player in James Bell, but still keep most of the team that was one of the top in the nation last season. This year's squad has a lot of continuity and should continue to impress.
By: Dan Goggin
Follow us on Twitter @BroadStBeat
Bell was a big contributor to the Wildcat offense, averaging 14.4 ppg, 6.1 rpg and shot 81.5% from the line. He led the team in ppg, minutes per game, and steals per game as well. Someone will need to step up to fill the production Bell has left behind.
Key Returning Players: JayVaughn Pinkston, Darrun Hilliard, Ryan Archidiacono
Fortunately for the Wildcats, they can make up for Bell's production with improvements from all three of the guys listed above. Pinkston is entering his final season and looks to be the first option on offense. Hilliard was the number two scorer on last year's team, so he will be comfortable having a smiliar role on this year's team. Finally, Arcidiacono is a pesky defender who controls the tempo on offense. He will be able to take on an even bigger role for his junior season.
Key Additions: Mikal Bridges
Local Malvern product Bridges is the #20 ranked small forward in the nation, according to ESPN's Recruiting rankings. Bridges will be able to slide into the rotation from day one and help carry some of the offensive load immediately.
Bottom Line:
Jay Wright and crew lost a terrific player in James Bell, but still keep most of the team that was one of the top in the nation last season. This year's squad has a lot of continuity and should continue to impress.
By: Dan Goggin
Follow us on Twitter @BroadStBeat
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